But efforts to reduce digital distraction may have another benefit: improving employee health and well-being.

Office furniture-maker Herman Miller is working on a “digital ergonomics” initiative that hopes to provide guidelines for employees and the public about the healthy use of mobile technology, similar to other workplace wellness initiatives about exercise and workplace posture.

The program, which is in its early stages, was launched because some Herman Miller employees and clients reported that using mobile technology while working created inconvenience and discomfort. They were less focused and productive as a result and some even reported sleep disruptions when using their mobile devices to work late at night, says Ryan Anderson, director of future technology at Herman Miller. Other academic research has found that use of digital devices can lead to health problems, he adds.

“There’s a lot of emphasis right now on workplace well-being,” says Mr. Anderson. “The use of technology should be a part of this conversation.”